TSMChicago

An amazing and thorough documentary that puts a human face on both the leaders and victims of the Scientology movement. After a detailed biography of founder L. Ron Hubbard, we meet several former members and learn of their experiences inside the church as well as their efforts to leave.

This is a compelling and disturbing portrait of an organization that is desperate to retain their privileged tax-exempt status while building an obscenely large reserve of cash and real estate. The frank and sometimes self-effacing comments of former members shed an unflattering light on the efforts of the Scientology church to reign in members who question the motives of leader David Miscavige. Fear, blackmail, lawsuits, physical abuse and harassment of family members are all weapons in their efforts to keep the membership in line. The most damning evidence comes from Scientology's own memos, writings and training manuals.

The videos of Scientology members Tom Cruise and John Travolta shilling for the organization are nothing short of startling. Cruise comes off especially condescending and arrogant.

My only complaint about this film is that no one from Scientology responded to requests to appear and defend their organization. While not surprising, it would have been interesting to hear something other than the terse denials issued through their lawyers.

Also, a personal note to the filmmakers: The titles and written descriptions in this film are far too small for an average sized television. I found myself having to sit right next to the screen to read them.

Darrell James Roodt directed this superb film based on the 1988 Tony Award nominee for Best Musical and Best Actress in a Musical. A gripping drama depicting the apartheid struggle and subsequent student riots in Soweto, South Africa that is laced with fantastic songs and production numbers. The cast features Whoopi Goldberg, South African singing legend Miriam Makeba (Pata Pata) and the amazing Leleti Khumalo in the title role. Also watch for Robert Whitehead's chilling performance as a prison interrogator. Includes songs by the film's co-writer Mbongeni Ngema who also plays Constable Sabela in the film. Additional selections were written by Hugh Masekela (Grazing in the Grass). The energetic choreography is by Michael Peters (Thriller).